Infrared endoscopic balloon probes

ABSTRACT

Balloon probes, adapted for use in endoscopy and other medical procedures, are useful to obtain spectroscopic information reflected or emitted from a tissue of interest in the infrared spectral region. The information collected by the probe is useful in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. The invention also relates to methods utilizing these probes to analyze a surface of interest, in a minimally invasive manner, in connection with the diagnosis and treatment of disease.

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 60/098,957 filed Sep. 3, 1998. This application isa Continuing Application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/389,342,filed Sep. 2, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,741,884.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to probes useful in endoscopy and otherprocedures, and more particularly to balloon probes adapted to obtainspectroscopic information in the infrared spectral region. The inventionalso relates to methods that utilize these probes to analyze a surfaceof interest in connection with the diagnosis and treatment of disease.

2. Description of the Background

Numerous minimally-invasive diagnostic and treatment devices and methodsof using them have been developed. Two such categories of devices areendoscopes and balloon catheters.

Endoscopes have proved useful in the examination of internal surfaces,in connection with various surgical and diagnostic procedures. However,conventional endoscopes, such as colonoscopes, gastroscopes,bronchoscopes, and angioscopes, are limited in their ability to detectall pathology present or provide unequivocal identification ofabnormalities. These devices typically collect reflected visible lightfrom a lumen, which may be expanded with water or gas, for simple visualevaluation of the tissue surface of interest. If a definitive diagnosisof the type of pathology or disease present in the tissue is needed, atissue specimen is typically removed or biopsied and submitted forpathologic testing. Unfortunately, the biopsy process increases the riskof complications to the patient, such as hemorrhage, infection, andpossible perforation of the organ or vessel under examination.

In addition to endoscopic devices that collect reflected visible lightto produce an image allowing for simple visual evaluation, endoscopesthat detect fluorescence emitted following excitation of tissue with aradiation source have also been described. One such device includes avisible light source, an optional endoscopic probe, optical sensors, afilter, a detector, and a display monitor. One or two wavelengths ofvisible light, preferably blue and red/near-infrared light, is directedto the tissue of interest, and remittance and autofluorescence is thendetected, integrated/processed and displayed (U.S. Pat. No. 5,590,660 toMacAulay). This device does not incorporate balloons into the probes tofacilitate optical coupling, to allow infrared-based evaluation of thediseased tissue.

Another device, useful for diagnosing the condition of GI tissue,utilizes fiber optics to detect emitted fluorescence followingexcitation radiation treatment (U.S. Pat. No. 5,421,337 toRichards-Kortum). In addition, devices which detect precancerous lesionsusing a mercury arc lamp endoscope (U.S. Pat. No. 5,647,368 to Zeng),devices which monitor and determine pre-existing physical properties ofan organ by excitation with UV light (U.S. Pat. No. 5,456,252 to Vari),and devices which determine bilirubin concentration in tissue usingreflectance spectroscopy (U.S. Pat. No. 5,353,790 to Jacques) have alsobeen described. However, these devices do not combine balloon endoscopeswith infrared radiation to detect diseased tissue.

Balloon catheters, like endoscopes, have been routinely used fordiagnostics and treatment. Typical uses of conventional ballooncatheters include procedures such as angioplasty and embolectomy.However, prior to the present invention, these conventional balloondevices could not be used in procedures in which infrared light isemitted in close proximity or directly onto a tissue surface, followedby collection of the light reflected or emitted from the tissue ofinterest, due to moisture and fluids in the surrounding environment.

The use of infrared radiation in catheters and endoscopic devices iscomplicated by the fact that water and most bodily fluids are opaque toinfrared light. Consequently, even the slightest amount of moisture onthe collection end of an endoscopic probe impairs the collection ofinfrared light. As a result, conventional endoscopes and ballooncatheters cannot be used in infrared procedures where moisture or bodilyfluids are present.

Fiber optic laser catheters and endoscopes having a protective shieldover the probe tip have been described as useful in connection with thediagnosis and removal of atherosclerosis. In one such device, an opticalfiber(s) carrying laser radiation is mounted in a catheter having atransparent protective optical shield over its distal end (U.S. Pat.Nos. 5,318,024 and 5,125,404 to Kittrell). The fiber(s) is anchoredwithin the catheter so that there is an appropriate distance or spacebetween the output end of the fiber(s) and the tip of the shield. Theintervening space may be filled with fluid, optical surfaces may beoptically contacted, or they may be anti-reflection coated to reducereflections and maximize transmitted light. The catheter may be insertedinto a blood vessel and the shield brought into contact with a plaque orobstruction site.

In this device, the protective optical shield mechanically displacesblood at the region to be analyzed and also protects the distal tip ofthe optical fiber(s) from intra-arterial contents. By locally displacingblood, the shield allows viewing of the tissue of interest without theneed for a purge or flush. The optical shield may be in the form ofglass, fused silica, sapphire or other optically transparent material. Aflexible balloon over the tip of the probe may also be used as anoptical shield. A different balloon may be used to provide an anchorpoint for positioning the catheter during use.

Although the shields of these devices protect a probe tip from bloodcontaminants, the use of a single balloon to both anchor and protect thetip of the probe from infrared opaque contaminants, which simultaneouslyallows optical coupling in the infrared region between the probe tip andthe tissue surface has not previously been described. The Kittreldevices are designed for use with visible light. In addition, probesincorporating two anchoring balloons which allow the evacuation of alumen and its subsequent filling with an infrared lucent coupling fluidare also not described.

As can be seen, because of the challenges posed by the effect ofmoisture on infrared light transmission, available endoscopic devicesand catheters are limited in their ability to access and evaluate tissueand/or the lumen of vessels and organs using infrared light. There istherefore a need for a relatively non-invasive device which allows foroptical coupling of a probe to the tissue or surface of interest,thereby allowing thorough evaluation and diagnosis of tissues and/or thelumen of vessels and organs using infrared radiation.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention overcomes the problems and disadvantages associated withcurrent strategies and designs and provides new devices and methods forobtaining diagnostic information through the use of endoscopic balloonprobes, particularly those utilizing infrared (IR) spectroscopy.

Probes-according to a preferred embodiment of the present inventioninclude an IR-transmitting single or multiple fiber endoscope, which isconnected to a high resolution spectrometer. Infrared spectra arecollected and used for diagnosis. The use of spectroscopy with afiberoptic endoscope allows the collection of high resolutioninformation in the infrared spectral region from diseased tissue. Thepresent invention allows for rapid and accurate analysis of an organ,despite the presence of moisture, without the need for a tissue biopsyand its potential complications, such as hemorrhage, perforation andinfection. In addition, by using the anchoring balloons in conjunctionwith the endoscopic probes, collection of diagnostic spectra,particularly infrared radiation, in the lumen of a vessel or organ iseven further enhanced. The novel balloon configurations displace anyopaque fluids which may be present and allow optical coupling of theprobe to the tissue of interest.

In addition, multiple fibers may be paired with hyperspectral imagingtechniques. Each fiber's data may be processed to provide a singlepixel. The pixels produced by each individual fiber may be incorporatedinto an imaging array and/or translated into an image or other displayoptimized so that it may be readily interpreted or read by the user.

Accordingly, one embodiment of the invention is directed to a probedevice which is useful for collecting infrared radiation from a surfaceof interest. The collected radiation is analyzed to provide informationabout the tissue surface. The probe device of this embodiment comprisesa collection fiber which has a proximal end, a distal collection endopposite the proximal end adapted to collect infrared radiation, and aninfrared conductive core located between the proximal end and the distalcollection end. A sheath surrounds a portion of the collection fiber. Afirst anchoring balloon is preferably disposed on the sheath. The distalcollection end of the collection fiber may be nested inside or disposedinside the balloon. This configuration displaces the opaque fluids whichmay be present, optically couples the probe to the tissue when theballoon is inflated, and protects the collection end of the probe fromcontamination.

Alternately, the first anchoring balloon may be disposed on the sheathbetween the proximal end and the distal collection end of the fiber anda second anchoring balloon may be disposed on a portion of the sheaththat extends distally past the distal collection end of the collectionfiber. When the two balloons are inflated, the void created between theballoons and the lumen wall may be filled with an infrared lucent fluid,displacing any infrared opaque fluids. This allows optical coupling ofthe collection end of the probe to the tissue surface, and protects theend of the probe from contamination.

Another embodiment is directed to a probe device having a plurality ofcollection fibers adapted to collect light, which is preferably infraredlight. The probe device of this embodiment comprises an imagingcollection fiber bundle comprising a plurality of collection fibers,each of the plurality of collection fibers comprising a proximal end, adistal collection end opposite the proximal end, and a conductive corelocated between the proximal end and the distal collection end. A firstanchoring balloon is disposed on the fiber bundle; preferably it isdisposed so that the distal collection ends of the plurality ofcollection fibers are disposed inside the balloon. Alternately, it mayhave the two balloon configuration previously described.

Another embodiment is directed to an endoscopic probe having acollection fiber which has a proximal end, a distal collection endopposite the proximal end adapted to collect infrared light, and aconductive core located between the proximal end and the collection end.The probe also has an illumination fiber having a distal illuminationend adjacent the distal collection end of the collection fiber, and aproximate end coupled to the illumination source. An infrared lucentanchoring balloon is positioned on the probe such that the distalcollection end of the collection fiber and the illumination end of theillumination fiber is disposed in the balloon. The illumination fiberpreferably provides infrared light.

Another embodiment of the invention is directed to an endoscopic probecomprising a toroidally-shaped anchoring balloon, having a central holeor bore therethrough, and a collection fiber adapted to collect infraredradiation. The fiber has a distal collection end disposed inside thecentral hole of the balloon.

The present invention is also directed to methods for obtaininginformation about a surface of interest. One such method comprises thesteps of positioning a probe adjacent to the surface of interest,collecting infrared light using the probe, transmitting the infraredlight from the surface to analyzing means, and analyzing the infraredlight to determine one or more properties of the surface. In thisembodiment, the probe preferably comprises a collection fiber, thecollection fiber comprising a proximal end, a distal collection endopposite the proximal end adapted to collect infrared light, and aninfrared conductive core located between the proximal end and the distalcollection end, and at least one anchoring balloon disposed on theprobe.

Another embodiment is directed to a method for obtaining informationabout a surface of interest, comprising the steps of positioning a probeadjacent to the surface of interest, collecting infrared light using theprobe, transmitting the infrared light from the surface to analyzingmeans, and analyzing the light to determine one or more properties ofthe surface. In this embodiment, the probe preferably comprises a lightcollection fiber bundle comprising a plurality of collection fibersadapted to collect infrared light, each of the plurality of collectionfibers having a proximal end, a distal collection end opposite theproximal end, and a conductive core located between the proximal end andthe distal collection end. A first balloon may be positioned on a sheathbetween the proximal end and the collection end of the plurality ofcollection fibers and a second balloon disposed on the sheath distal tothe collection ends. Alternately, a balloon may be disposed on the probesuch that the distal collection ends of the fibers lie inside theballoon.

Still another embodiment is directed to a method for obtaininginformation about a tissue surface, comprising the steps of collectinginfrared radiation from the tissue surface using a probe placedproximate to the tissue surface, the probe having a longitudinal axis,transmitting the infrared radiation from the tissue surface to a remoteanalyzer, and analyzing the infrared information to determine propertiesof the tissue. The remote analyzer may comprise a spectrometer anddetector array.

Although preferred embodiments of the invention are directed to probeshaving fibers and optical coupling means uniquely suited for thecollection and analysis of infrared wavelengths, as will be clear tothose of skill in the art, in other embodiments, additional fibers maybe incorporated into the probes, so that other wavelengths (in additionto infrared) may be collected and analyzed.

Other objects and advantages of the invention are set forth in part inthe description which follows, and in part, will be obvious from thisdescription, or may be learned from the practice of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 Longitudinal cross-section of a probe device according to a firstembodiment of the present invention, showing an illumination fiber inphantom.

FIG. 2 Longitudinal cross-section of a probe device according to asecond embodiment of the present invention, showing a multi-fiberconfiguration in phantom.

FIG. 3 Longitudinal cross-section of a probe device according to a thirdembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 Longitudinal cross-section of a probe device according to afourth embodiment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As embodied and broadly described herein, the present invention isdirected to probe devices useful in a wide variety of medical and otherprocedures, including, but not limited to, endoscopic procedures such asthoracoscopy, laparoscopy, angioscopy and biopsy. Specifically, thepresent invention relates to balloon probes adapted to obtainspectroscopic information in a desirable spectral range, such as in theinfrared spectral region. The invention also relates to methods thatutilize these probes to analyze a surface of interest, such as inconnection with the diagnosis and treatment of disease.

The present invention overcomes the problems inherent in the use ofinfrared radiation in a moist environment by providing novel means forbringing the collection end of the optic fiber into unobstructed opticalcontact with the tissue surface. The novel balloon configurationsprevent interference with infrared excitation and collection due tomoisture, which has made the use of infrared radiation in conventionalscopes impossible.

Probes according to the present invention are advantageous in that theymay be used to detect the composition or other qualities of a tissuesurface in a non-invasive manner. For example, by detecting thefrequencies and intensities of infrared light reflected or emitted fromthe wall, information about chemical bond energies can be obtained in anon--invasive manner. This bond energy information can then betranslated into information about the composition of the wall and usedas a diagnostic aid.

The probe devices and methods of the present invention can be used todetermine tissue viability (i.e., whether tissue is dead or living, andwhether it is predicted to remain living), detecting tissue ischemia(e.g., in heart, or in leg after a gunshot wound), differentiatingbetween normal and malignant cells and tissues (e.g., delineatingtumors, dysplasias and precancerous tissue, detecting metastasis),differentiating between infected and normal (but inflamed) tissue (e.g.,extent of aortic root infection), quantification and identification ofpathogens, and differentiating and delineating other pathologic states.Applications further include evaluation of tissue and blood chemistry,as well as examining the chemistry of blood vessel walls, includinglipid and plaque characteristics and determining effects oflipid-lowering agents.

The probes and apparatus of the present invention may also be applied byveterinarians to animals, by dentists to dental applications, such asperiodontal disease, and by pathologists in connection with forensicevaluation of a tissue of interest.

In addition, instruments according to the invention permit a surgeon ora physician to diagnose a medical condition or develop a surgicalstrategy based on real-time spectroscopic information obtained duringsurgery or in the course of performing clinical procedures or othermedical evaluations. As a result, the physician is able to readilyobtain significantly more information about a patient's condition thanhe or she might otherwise have been able to obtain. This additionalinformation may permit a given surgical procedure to be carried out moreefficiently, leading lead to more successful surgical results.

The general-purpose nature of instruments according to the presentinvention can help a surgeon develop significant amounts of medicalinformation in time-critical surgical situations. For example, a patientmay undergo surgery during which the surgeon may wish to evaluate atumor, an area of blood vessel abnormality, or another pathologicalcondition. Using the present invention, the physician can quicklydetermine the nature and extent of the pathology while the patient isstill under anesthesia. This is particularly beneficial during majorsurgery, where significantly extending surgery duration increasesmorbidity and mortality risk. Because the devices of the presentinvention allow for rapid and minimally invasive procedures, thepatient's overall risk is reduced. The immediate diagnosis andevaluation possible using the devices of the present invention providesignificant benefits to the patient.

A preferred embodiment of one probe device according to the presentinvention is depicted in FIG. 1. In the figures, like reference numeralsrefer to like features or elements so that a further description thereofis omitted. Referring to FIG. 1, probe or probe device 10 includes asheath 12, an optical fiber 14, and a balloon 16. Balloon 16 has a wall17. Sheath 12 is a flexible hollow tube that allows optical fiber 14 ofprobe 10 to be threaded along a guide wire inserted by a physician,although rigid or semi-rigid probes that do not require a guidingmechanism may also be used. A needle or other suitable means may also beused to guide the probe into place.

Suitable optical fibers useful in the present invention include, but arenot limited to infrared fibers, such as fluoride-based glasses,chalcogenide glass fibers, sulfide-based fibers and telluride-basedfibers. In a preferred embodiment, fluoride-based glass fibers are used.In another embodiment, chalcogenide glass fibers with low optical lossin the 2-11 μm wavelength region are used. Another embodiment of theinvention may incorporate sulfide-based fibers, which transmit in the1-6 μm region. Alternately, another embodiment may use telluride-basedfibers which transmit in the 2-11 μm region. In yet another embodiment,mixtures of fibers may be used. Current minimal optical loss for glasscladded sulfide fibers is 0.4 dB/m at 2.6 μm. The minimal optical lossfor telluride fibers is 0.7 dB/m at 6.6 μm. An anti-reflection (AR)coating may be applied to fiber end faces to increase transmission.

Optical fiber 14 includes a distal optical collection end 20 and aproximal optical end 26, and may include a bend 22. Distal collectionend 20 is responsive to a surface of tissue of a patient. Bend 22 ispreferably disposed proximate to collection end 20, between collectionend 20 and proximal optical end 26. Proximal optical end 26 is opticallycoupled to spectrometer 32, such as by lens 28. Spectrometer 32 iscoupled to optical detector 30. Spectrometer 32 is used to select one ormore desired wavelengths which are transmitted to an optical detector 30for measurement.

In the embodiment of FIG. 1, balloon 16 may be a standard angioplastyballoon designed for application to blood vessels. However, balloons ofother sizes and shapes may also be employed depending on the intendedapplication. Preferably, the balloon is infrared lucent or virtuallyinfrared lucent when inflated. For example, teflon may be used to make asuitable balloon. By making the balloon very thin when inflated, anyminor opacity to infrared light may be digitally subtracted from thesignal using known techniques.

As shown in FIG. 1, when inserted, collection end 20 of the opticalfiber 14 is disposed inside the lumen of balloon 16. Collection end 20may directly contact the balloon wall. Alternately, there may be a gapbetween collection end 20 and the balloon wall 17 when the balloon isinflated.

In operation, probe 10 is inserted into an opening, such as an orificeor incision in a patient, and it is threaded until collection end 20 ofthe fiber is positioned (inside balloon 16) proximate or adjacent to theexposed tissue surface of interest. Balloon 16 is then inflated, such asvia an inflation channel in sheath 12 with an infrared lucent gas orliquid. A preferred infrared lucent fluid is dry nitrogen gas. However,the media or medium chosen may be determined by the specific purpose andlocation of the procedure. Following inflation, collection end 20 isbrought into close proximity or is optically coupled to the exposedtissue wall or surface of interest 18.

The optical coupling provided by the balloons of the invention allowsthe collection end of the probe to emit and collect infrared lightunimpeded by infrared opaque fluids, such as water, blood or otherbodily fluids. For example, the surface may be a lumen wall such as thewall of a blood vessel, the lining of an intestine, a chamber of theheart (e.g., to look for signs of rejection), or other appropriate lumenwall in the patient. The surface to be examined can also be created byan incision, such as an incision in the breast. The probes of thepresent invention may be used in procedures examining body cavities orany type of lumen, including fetoscopic and laparoscopic procedures.

Bend 22 in the fiber permits collection end 20 to collect light from aradial direction with respect to the longitudinal axis of the core offiber 14. In radial-looking embodiments, a mirror or prism mayoptionally be used to collect light at an angle to the longitudinal axisof the fiber core. Alternately, a fiber with a straight end may be usedto collect light from a direction aligned with the longitudinal axis ofthe fiber.

By inflating the balloon with an infrared lucent fluid, collection end20 of fiber 14 is optically coupled to the tissue surface 18. Light,including, but not limited to, infrared radiation emitted from orreflected by the wall, is thus transmitted along fiber 14 to thespectrometer and detector by total internal reflection (TIR). In apreferred embodiment, detector 30 is sensitive in the infrared spectralregions, allowing spectrometer 32 to present an infrared image orspectrum to the surgeon. Detector 30 is preferably sensitive towavelengths of at least 800-25,000 nanometers (nm) and more preferably,to wavelengths ranging from 3,000-14,000 nm, and most preferably, towavelengths of 6,000-12,000 nm. The acquired spectrum may be presenteddirectly to a physician or it may be analyzed by a computer to assistin-identifying attributes of the tissue surface.

The light received by collection end 20 of fiber 14 may be supplied tothe area of interest from source 34 through illumination fiber 36.Illumination fiber 36 has a proximate end 39 optically coupled to lightsource 34, and a distal illumination end 41 adjacent to collection end20. The light may also be emitted from within the tissue surface itself(e.g., bioluminescence), or it may be transmitted through the tissuesurface from the other side of the tissue surface. By using fibers whichare transparent in the ultraviolet region, further spectral information,including information attributable to fluorescence, may be obtained.Optionally, as will be clear to those of skill in the art, a singlefiber may be used to both illuminate and collect, for example, by usinga beam splitter to allow both excitation and collection with a singlefiber.

Spectrometers useful in the present invention include dispersive, fixedor tunable bandpass devices. Preferred spectrometers include Fouriertransform interferometers or dispersive monochromators. Useful imagingspectrometers include dielectric bandpass filters and liquid crystaltunable filters (LCTFs). The spectrometer and detector may beincorporated into a single device. Preferred illumination sourcesinclude infrared ceramic sources, such as a globar, or tunable infraredlasers. Other illumination sources include quartz tungsten halogen (QTH)bulbs (near infrared) and broad band visible bulbs.

FIG. 2 depicts a second embodiment of the present invention. Referringto FIG. 2, second probe device or probe 40 includes sheath 42, opticalfiber 44, proximate balloon 46 and distal balloon 48. Optical fiber 44includes distal optical collection end 50, proximal optical end 56, andbend 52 disposed proximate to collection end 50. Probe 40 may differfrom probe 10 in that the collection end 50 is not in apposition with ordisposed inside the balloon, but instead sits between the distal andproximate balloons. The collection ends of probe 40 may or may not be inapposition with tissue surface 18. Sheath or conduit 42 also includesopening 65 which connects or allows communication between the inside ofsheath 42 with volume 64. Volume 64 is defined by proximate balloon 46,distal balloon 48, and tissue surface 18. Proximal optical end 56 offiber 44 is functionally coupled to detector 58, such as a detectorarray, via a spectrometer.

Probe 40, like probe 10 of the first embodiment, may be implemented as asingle-fiber or multi-fiber probe by providing one or more additionalfibers 54 that run next to first fiber 44 in a bundle. Fibers 54 mayeach include a bend 62 in a different plane causing fibers 54 to divergeradially from first fiber 44 and from each other. Alternately, thefibers may have axially offset bends 62 in the same plane. Each of thefibers 54 has a distal collecting end 60 and a proximate end 66, whichmay be coupled to an additional detector 68 via a spectrometer. Thefirst detector 58 and the additional detector(s) 68 may form part of adetector array, such as a focal plane array (FPA). Alternately, themultiple fibers in this embodiment may be serviced by a single detectorand an optical multiplexer.

In operation, probe 40 is positioned in the area of interest, and distaland proximate balloons 46 and 48 are inflated. This creates cavity orenclosed volume 64 between the two balloons 46 and 48 and lumen wall 18.In a lumen where there is fluid flow, such as a blood vessel, theupstream balloon is preferably inflated first. With both balloonsinflated and in place, an infrared transparent coupling fluid (i.e., agas or liquid) may be introduced into the cavity 64 via opening 65 insheath 42. This optically couples the collection end 50 or ends 50, 60to surface 18 of the lumen wall. Radiation received at each fiber canthen be transmitted to its respective detector 58, 68, and the signalsreceived by the different detectors can be displayed, such as a linearcircumferential image of the lumen wall 18, or otherwise processed.

FIG. 3 depicts a third embodiment of the present invention. Referring toFIG. 3, probe or probe device 70 includes sheath 72, balloon 76 andfiber 74. Fiber 74 has a distal collection end 77 and a proximal end 79.In this embodiment, the fiber or fibers may be, but need not be, fixedto an outer surface 73 of balloon 76. Probe 70 may further include abend 75, or a reflector that redirects light from collection end 77 intothe fiber 74. The fiber or fibers may be introduced separately from theballoon using a guidewire. Apposition to the wall may be accomplished bysimple inflation of balloon 76.

Although probes 10, 40 and 70 are occlusive, probes 10 and 70 may employan autoperfusion balloon to allow antegrade blood flow during inflation.The balloon may be toroidally shaped. The balloon may have a passage 78that is either centrally located or offset from the center. For example,as depicted in FIG. 3, passage 78 allows fluid communication betweenproximate end 71 a and distal end 71 b of balloon 70. Probe 40 is lessconducive to the addition of a passage, although a rigid sheath sectionmay be provided that begins at the distal end of the distal balloon andends at the proximate end of the proximal balloon.

FIG. 4 depicts a fourth embodiment of the present invention. Referringto FIG. 4, probe or probe device 80, which may be used as an angioscope,includes collection fiber 84, illumination fiber 86, and sheath 82. Thetwo fibers 84 and 86 are arranged generally in parallel. Collectionfiber 84 has a collection end 90, a bend 92, and a proximal end 96.Illumination fiber 86 has a distal end 100, a bend 102 and a proximateend 106. The two fibers are also surrounded by a flexible sheath 82 thatis preferably smaller than the diameter of the lumen of interest, andincludes a bend 112 that generally follows bends 82 and 92 in the twofibers. Like the other embodiments, probe 80 may include more than onecollection fiber. In a preferred embodiment, probe 80 does not occupythe entire diameter of the lumen of interest, and therefore allowsfluids such as blood to pass through the lumen while the assessment isbeing made. Alternately, this embodiment may be designed with anocclusion balloon or balloons and a perfusion lumen.

The embodiments described above preferably employ bends to orient thecollection ends of the fibers, causing the light to be redirected bytotal internal reflection. However, any other suitable means fororienting the collection ends may be substituted for these bends. Forexample, in addition to bends, the means for orienting the collection oflight may include mirrors, prisms or crystals to orient light collectionby the fibers. Different coupling methods may also be employed to couplethe light to the tissue surface and to couple light from the tissuesurface into the fiber, such as lenses, prisms, or waveguides. Forexample, in one embodiment, an assembly made up of a looped fiber with acrystal tip at a bend in the loop is used to acquire light energy.

In various embodiments of the invention described herein whichincorporate bends in the fibers, the probe may be inserted without thefiber or with the fiber retracted so that the area of the fiber with thebend lies within the sheath or analogous structure. After the probe isin position, the fiber may then be advanced out of the sheath (i.e.,through a hole in the wall or an opening in the end of the sheath),causing the bend to deploy radially. For example, in one embodiment, aprobe may comprise a collection fiber having an intrinsic bend. Thefiber is moveably disposed in a sheath, such that the bend deploys asthe distal end of the fiber is advanced through a hole in the sheath.

As will be clear to those of skill in the art, in the embodiment of FIG.1, the balloon and fluid in the balloon function as part of the totaloptic system. The balloon is made so that it is preferably infraredlucent when inflated with infrared lucent fluid. As such, theillumination and collection of infrared light is virtually unimpeded.The balloons in the embodiments of both FIGS. 1 and 2 also function inpreventing fouling of the optic fiber(s).

Balloons of the present invention may have a coating on their exteriorsurface that contacts the tissue of interest and interacts with saidtissue. The balloon coating may comprise agents such as, for example,proteins, antigens, tissue stimulants, effector molecules and chemicals.The effect of contacting the tissue of interest with the balloon coatingcan then be analyzed according to the methods of the invention. The useof a coated balloon allows for a defined area to be impacted. Balloonsof the present invention may also be useful in actively exciting oraffecting a tissue of interest through effects such as changing thetemperature of the tissue, or by distending, stretching or otherwisemechanically interacting with the tissue. By stretching or distendingtissue, examination of tissue can be further optimized.

Preferably, the probes of the present invention are adapted to collectand analyze infrared light and preferably process images from imageplanes acquired at wavelengths in the infrared region. Optionally, theprobe devices, including their detectors, may be sensitive to andcapable of detecting and analyzing other spectra of light. For example,probes may alternately or additionally be sensitive to the visibleand/or near infrared regions. The devices may operate in multispectral,and hyperspectral, or even ultraspectral imaging modes.

Multispectral modes involve image processing derived from a relativelysmall number of spectral image planes (two wavelengths to about twentywavelengths). Hyperspectral and ultra spectral imaging modes involve atleast twenty image planes and can produce significantly more accurateand informative results. Ultraspectral modes involve hundreds ofwavelengths, and may be able to produce even further information aboutthe surface under analysis; Hyperspectral imaging may include selectingspecific wavelength bands for discrimination of a particular diseasedstate, or it may also allow the instrument to scan for multipleconditions at the same time.

The probe devices of the present invention, which are designed tocollect and analyze specific wavelengths, have a number of potentialapplications. For example, wavelengths of about 550 and wavelengths ofabout 575 associated with oxy- and deoxy-hemoglobin may be collected andevaluated to determine blood oxygenation. The relationship between thesewavelengths is described in “Hemoglobin: Molecular Genetics and ClinicalAspects,” by H. Franklin Bunn and Bernard Forget, W. B. Sanders, 1986.Another example would involve the collection and analysis of the Fouriertransform infra-red spectra of the colon and rectum as described in“Human Colorectal Cancers Display Abnormal Fourier Transform Spectra,”by Basil Rigas et al., Proceedings of the National Academy of Science,pp. 8140-8144, 1987. As will be clear to those of skill in the art, theprobe devices of the present invention may be designed to collect andanalyze other wavelengths, depending on the intended application.

One embodiment of the present invention is directed to a probe deviceadapted to collect and analyze infrared radiation. The probe devicecomprises a collection fiber, the collection fiber comprising a proximalend, a distal collection end opposite the proximal end adapted tocollect infrared radiation, and an infrared conductive core locatedbetween the proximal end and the collection end. Preferably, the fiberis flexible. A sheath surrounds a portion of the collection fiber, and afirst anchoring balloon is disposed on the sheath. The probe device mayfurther comprise a spectrometer optically coupled to the proximal end ofthe collection fiber and a detector, such as a detector array,functionally coupled to the spectrometer, to detect infrared radiationfrom the proximal end of the collection fiber. For example, a detectorsuch as a mercury cadmium telluride (MCT) detector may be opticallycoupled to the spectrometer. Alternately, if the light is predispersed(i.e., the spectrometer is on the source rather than the detector), adetector element functionally coupled to the proximal end of thecollection fiber may be disposed at or near the collection end of thecollection fiber, and may even contact the surface of interest.

The instrument may further include a processing circuit functionallyconnected to the radiation detector. The processing circuit ispreferably operative to translate the level of detected radiation into ameasurable signal that is indicative of the level of damage or diseasein the tissue. The signal may be directly evaluated, or it may becompared to stored reference profiles, to provide an indication ofchanges from previous levels or trends in the patient's health ordisease state.

The probe preferably has an illumination fiber which has a distalillumination end adjacent or in close proximity to the distal collectionend of the collection fiber and a proximate end optically coupled to anillumination source. Preferably, the illumination fiber is an infraredtransmitting fiber, and the illumination source is an infrared sourcesuch as a globar. The sheath-preferably surrounds a portion of both thecollection fiber and the illumination fiber. Alternately, the collectionfiber may comprise a beam splitter, which allows both excitation andcollection of infrared light by a single collection fiber.

Rather than the use of an illumination fiber and remote illuminationsource, the probes of the present invention may alternately comprise alight source attached at the end of the probe or otherwise containedwithin the balloon. The balloon may also serve as an optical filter forboth the illumination light as well as the collected light. Alternately,a light source may be provided from a separate source located on oneside of the tissue of interest, while the probe is located on the otherside of the tissue. In this embodiment, the probe and the light sourceeffectively create a sandwich, with the tissue of interest in themiddle, thereby allowing transmitted light to be collected by the probe.This sandwich embodiment also allows for volumetric analyses to becarried out on the tissue, in addition to surface assessment.

An optical coupler, such as a curved or focusing mirror or a lens may beused to optically couple the proximal end of the collection fiber to thespectrometer. The spectrometer is used to select one or more wavelengthswhich are transmitted to a detector, such as a detector array.

The collection end of the fiber is preferably adapted to collect lightradiating or reflecting in a radial direction with respect to thelongitudinal axis of the fiber. To accomplish this, the probe devicepreferably includes means proximate the collection end to orient thecollection end in a radial direction with respect to a longitudinal axisof the fiber core. This may be accomplished, for example, by a bend inthe fiber core. Other means for orienting the collection of infraredlight by the fiber, in addition to bends, include mirrors, prisms andcrystals.

An advantage of the present invention is the ability to obtaininformation in a lumen or other area where space is restricted. In oneembodiment, the total diameter of the collection fiber, sheath andballoon are small enough to permit them to be inserted into mammalianblood vessels. For example, the total diameter of the collection fiber,sheath and balloon may have a diameter of less than 4 mm, and morepreferably, less than 2 mm when the first balloon is maximally inflated.Alternately, the balloons may be designed so that they can be used inthe lumen of a larger organ, such as intestine. For example, the balloonor balloons may have a diameter greater than 1-5 cm.

The collection fiber may be disposed in a variety of ways with respectto the first balloon. For example, in one embodiment, the collectionfiber penetrates the wall of the balloon between the collection end andthe proximal end such that the distal collection end lies inside theballoon. Alternately, the collection end of the collection fiber may bepositioned adjacent to the outside of the wall of the balloon. Aplurality of collecting fibers may be disposed in the sheath and used tocollect radiation. In embodiments involving multiple collecting fibers,the fibers may surround the balloon, or the collection ends may bedisposed inside the balloon. In embodiments where the collection end orends lie inside the balloon, the balloon and the liquid or gas used toinflate the balloon are preferably infrared lucent.

The probe device may alternately include a second anchoring balloondisposed on a portion of the sheath that extends distally past thecollection end of the collection fiber (i.e., it extends in a directionopposite the proximal end of the probe device). In this embodiment, thefirst balloon is disposed on the sheath between the proximal end and thecollection end of the collection fiber and the second balloon isdisposed on the distal portion of the sheath. An opening may be disposedin the sheath between the first and the second balloons. When this probedevice is disposed in a lumen, the balloons may be inflated, and afluid, preferably an infrared transparent or lucent fluid, is infusedthrough the opening in the sheath to fill the void defined by the firstand second balloons and the wall of the lumen.

As noted, it may be desirable to allow fluid flow past the probe device.In such instances, for example, those with a single balloon, a passagemay be provided through the balloon to allow fluid communication betweenthe proximate end and the distal end of the balloon.

Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a probedevice having an imaging collection fiber bundle comprising a pluralityof collection fibers, each of the plurality of collection fiberscomprising a proximal end, a distal collection end opposite the proximalend, and a conductive core located between the proximal end and thecollection end. A first anchoring balloon is disposed on the fiberbundle. The probe device may further comprise a spectrometer and adetector, such as a detector array, responsive to the proximal end ofthe plurality of collection fibers to acquire an image. The collectionfibers preferably conduct infrared light, but other fibers may be usedwhich conduct other wavelengths of light such as visible, UV and/or nearinfrared light. As with the previous embodiment, the probe device mayinclude an illumination fiber having a distal illumination end adjacentthe collection ends of the collecting fibers.

In one embodiment of a multi-fiber probe, there may be a centralillumination fiber surrounded by multiple collection fibers. Forexample, six collection fibers (or any desired number) may be placedcircumferentially around a center illumination fiber in a hexagonalconfiguration, and may be oriented to efficiently collect the light. Inanother embodiment, a multi-fiber probe may comprise a plurality ofcollection fibers and a plurality of illumination or excitation fibers;in this embodiment each of the collection fibers may be associated withor disposed adjacent to its respective excitation fiber.

With respect to multi-fiber embodiments, the light or data collected byeach fiber may provide a single pixel of information for incorporationinto an image or other display. The image is preferably optimized tofacilitate interpretation. For example, a two dimensional planar imagemay be produced from circumferential data.

A novel feature of balloon probes according to various embodiments ofthe invention relates to the incorporation of the balloon into theactual optical path. For example, in one embodiment, the distalcollection ends are disposed inside the wall of the balloon. Thisballoon is made of an infrared lucent material (or is virtually infraredlucent due to its thickness when inflated) and filled with an infraredlucent fluid to form a part of the optical path in a single fiber probe.In multiple fiber probes, this balloon may be compartmentalized. In thelatter embodiment, the balloon may be partitioned into a plurality ofdifferent or separate sacs or compartments. The collection ends of thecollection fibers are each disposed in a separate compartment.

In multi-fiber embodiments incorporating two anchoring balloons, thefirst balloon may be disposed between the proximal and distal collectionends of the collection fibers. Further, a conduit may be provided, whichpasses through a first anchoring balloon, and has a portion whichextends distally past the distal collection end of the plurality ofcollection fibers. This embodiment has a second anchoring balloonattached to the portion of the conduit that extends distally past thedistal collection end of the plurality of collection fibers. An openingmay be provided in the conduit between the first and second balloonsallowing fluid communication with the space between the first and secondballoons.

With respect to single balloon embodiments, the plurality of collectionfibers in the fiber bundle may be positioned adjacent to the outside ofthe wall of the balloon, and may form a bundle that surrounds theballoon. Alternately, the distal collection ends of the plurality offibers may be disposed inside the wall of the balloon, and the balloonmay serve as part of the coupler and collection device. In thisembodiment, the collection ends are preferably close to or contact theballoon wall in operation. The balloon may be partitioned into aplurality of separate compartments with the collection ends eachdisposed in a separate compartment.

The fiber bundle may be flexible, and may include means proximate thecollection end of each fiber to orient the collection ends in a radialdirection with respect to the axis of the core of the fibers, such asbends in the fiber cores. Mirrors, prisms and crystals may also be usedas a means for orienting collection of light. In a preferred embodiment,the bends in the fiber cores orient the plurality of collection fibersin at least two different directions.

In this embodiment, the detector may comprise a focal plane array suchas a mercury cadmium telluride plane array or a microbolometer array.The device may further comprise an optical multiplexer such as a digitalmicro mirror array.

Instruments according to the present invention may also include imagingoptic means within the probe, a spectral separator optically responsiveto the imaging optic means, and an imaging sensor optically responsiveto the spectral separator. The spectral separator may be a tunablefilter and the imaging sensor may be a two-dimensional imaging array,such as a focal plane array. The instrument may optionally comprise adiagnostic processor having an image acquisition interface responsive tothe imaging sensor. The diagnostic processor may also have a filtercontrol interface to which the spectral separator is responsive.

The diagnostic processor may also include a general-purpose processingmodule and diagnostic protocol modules, which may each include filtertransfer functions and an image processing protocol. The general-purposeprocessing module may be operative to instruct the filter tosuccessively apply the filter transfer functions to light collected fromthe patient, to acquire from the imaging sensor a number of images ofthe collected light each obtained after one of the filter transferfunctions is applied, and to process the acquired images according tothe image processing protocol to obtain a processed display image. Thegeneral-purpose processor may be a real-time processor operative togenerate a processed display image within a time period on the order ofthe persistence of human vision. It may also be operative to acquiresome images more slowly depending on the number of wavelengths andcomplexity of diagnostic processing protocol. The sensor and filter maybe operative in the visible, infra-red, and UV regions.

In embodiments involving multiple fibers, light from each fiber may beprocessed to generate an individual pixel for that fiber. The pixels maythen be arranged so that they form an image or display which can bereadily interpreted or read by the user.

Another embodiment of the invention is directed to an endoscopic balloonprobe having an infrared light source. This embodiment includes acollection fiber, the collection fiber comprising a proximal end, adistal collection end opposite the proximal end adapted to collectinfrared light, and a conductive core located between the proximal endand the distal collection end, an illumination fiber having a distalillumination end adjacent the distal collection end of the collectionfiber, and a proximate end coupled to an infrared illumination sourcesuch as globar or other means to orient image collection. An anchoringballoon is disposed on the probe such that the distal collection end ofthe collection fiber and the distal illumination end of the illuminationfiber are disposed inside the balloon. Preferably the balloon isinfrared lucent. A sheath may surround a portion of the collection fiberand a portion of the illumination fiber. The collection fiber may have abend to orient the collection end in a radial direction with respect tothe axis of the conductive core, or may use other means to orient imagecollection.

The present invention is also directed to novel methods for analyzing orobtaining information about the properties of a tissue or other surfaceof interest. One such method for obtaining information about a surfaceof interest comprises the steps of positioning a probe adjacent to thesurface of interest, collecting infrared light using the probe,transmitting the infrared light from the surface to analyzing means, andanalyzing the light to determine one or more properties of the surface.The probe preferably comprises a collection fiber, the collection fibercomprising a proximal end, a distal collection end opposite the proximalend adapted to collect infrared light, and an infrared conductive corelocated between the proximal end and the distal collection end, and afirst anchoring balloon disposed on the probe. The step of collectinginfrared light preferably comprises collecting infrared light in thevicinity of the collection end of the probe that shines or radiates in adirection generally or substantially perpendicular to the longitudinalaxis of the probe. The steps of analyzing preferably comprisesspectroscopic analysis. More preferably, the step of analyzing comprisesimaging spectroscopy.

In a preferred method, the-distal collection end of the probe liesinside the balloon, and the balloon protects the collection end of theprobe from moisture and fouling. Alternately, the probe furthercomprises a sheath which surrounds a portion of the collection fiber. Afirst anchoring balloon is disposed on the sheath between the proximaland distal collection end of the collection fiber. The sheath has aportion that extends distally past the collection end of the collectionfiber, and the probe further comprises a second anchoring balloondisposed on the portion of the sheath distal to the collection end. Whenthe tissue of interest is disposed in a lumen, the method may furthercomprise the steps of inflating the first balloon and the second balloonto create an enclosed volume defined by the first balloon, the secondballoon and the lumen, and completely or partially filling the volumewith a fluid, such as dry nitrogen gas. The balloons may be inflatedsequentially to facilitate this process. For example, when the probe isinserted in a blood vessel, the upstream balloon may be inflated first,followed by the downstream balloon. The upstream balloon may be thefirst or the second balloon, depending on whether the probe is insertedantegrade or retrograde into the vessel. The fluid used to fill thevolume may be an infrared lucent gas or liquid, including opticalcoupling fluids such as dry nitrogen gas. In a preferred embodiment ofthe method, the distal collection end of the collection fiber isinserted into the enclosed volume after the balloons are inflated andthe volume is filled with liquid.

Another embodiment is directed to a method for obtaining informationabout a surface of interest comprising the steps of positioning a probeadjacent to the surface of interest, collecting light using the probe,transmitting the light from the surface to analyzing means, andanalyzing the light to determine one or more properties of the surface.Preferably, the probe comprises a light collection fiber bundlecomprising a plurality of collection fibers adapted to collect infraredlight, each of the plurality of collection fibers comprising a proximalend, a distal collection end opposite the proximal end, and a conductivecore located between the proximal end and the distal collection end. Theprobe is preferably adapted to collect infrared light. The step ofcollecting light preferably comprises collecting light in the vicinityof the collection end of the probe that radiates or shines in adirection generally or substantially perpendicular to the longitudinalaxis of the probe. The step of analyzing preferably comprisesspectroscopic analysis, such as imaging spectroscopy, standard orotherwise. Preferably, an anchoring balloon is disposed on the probesuch that the distal collection ends are disposed inside the wall of theballoon.

Alternately, the probe may further comprise a sheath disposed around thefiber bundle, a first anchoring balloon disposed on the sheath betweenthe collection ends and the proximal ends of the plurality of fibers,and a second anchoring balloon disposed on the sheath distal to thecollection ends of the plurality of fibers. As with the previous method,when the tissue of interest is disposed in a lumen, the method mayfurther comprise the steps of inflating the first balloon and the secondballoon to create an enclosed volume defined by the first balloon, thesecond balloon and the lumen, and emptying the volume or filling thevolume with a fluid. The fluid is preferably infrared lucent. In apreferred embodiment of the method, the distal collection ends areinserted into the enclosed volume after the balloons are inflated andthe volume is filled with the fluid.

Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a probe in which thedistal collection end of one or more collection fibers is disposed inthe central hole of a toroidally-shaped anchoring balloon. Thisembodiment may optionally comprise one or more illumination orexcitation fibers disposed so that the distal illumination end of thefiber or fibers are also disposed in the central hole of the balloon. Inthese embodiments, excitation light from the distal illumination end ofthe illumination fiber passes through the inner wall of the balloon, thecoupling fluid and the outer wall of the balloon to reach the tissuesurface. Likewise, light coming from the tissue surface passes throughthe outer wall of the balloon, the coupling fluid and the inner wall ofthe balloon to reach the distal collection end of the probe.

Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a method forobtaining information about a tissue surface, comprising the steps ofcollecting infrared radiation from the tissue surface using a probeplaced proximate to the tissue surface, the probe having a longitudinalaxis, transmitting the infrared radiation from the tissue surface to aremote analyzer and analyzing the infrared information to determineproperties of the tissue surface. The step of analyzing may comprisespectroscopic analysis, such as imaging spetroscopy, standard orotherwise. In addition, the step of collecting and transmitting may beperformed using multiple fibers in the probe. The step of collectinginfrared radiation may comprise collecting infrared light in thevicinity of a collection end of the probe that radiates or shines in adirection generally or substantially perpendicular to the longitudinalaxis of the probe. Preferably, the probe has means for opticallycoupling the collection end of the probe to the tissue surface. Suchmeans include all of the various balloon configurations previouslydescribed. For example, the means for optically coupling may comprise ananchoring balloon disposed around a collection end of said probe.Alternately, the means may comprise a first anchoring balloon and asecond anchoring balloon disposed on said probe such that a collectionend of said probe is positioned between said first and said secondanchoring balloons. The two balloons may be inflated as previouslydescribed, thereby removing or minimizing the presence of infraredopaque substances between the tissue surface and probe tip.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises the step of providing asource of infrared radiation adjacent to the opposing surface of thetissue surface being analyzed, and the step of collecting comprisescollecting the radiation transmitted through the tissue to the probe.

Although the preferred embodiments disclosed herein are directed toprobes collecting infrared light, as will be clear to those of skill inthe art, other forms of electromagnetic radiation, including but notlimited to visible light, near-infrared light, or any desired wavelengthmay be collected by appropriate modifications to the probe. Theballoons, sheaths, collection fibers and/or illumination fibersdescribed herein may be disposable. In addition, although the probes ofthe invention have been described primarily as useful in connection withmedical procedures, they may be used to evaluate any other desiredsurface.

Other embodiments and uses of the invention will be apparent to thoseskilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practiceof the invention disclosed herein. All references cited herein,including all U.S. and foreign patents and patent applications,including, but not limited to, U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSerial No. 60/098,957 and U.S. application Ser. No. 09/182,898, arespecifically and entirely incorporated by reference. The specificationand examples should be considered exemplary only with the true scope andspirit of the invention indicated by the following claims.

1. A probe device, comprising: a collection fiber, said collection fiber comprising: a proximal end; a distal collection end opposite said proximal end adapted to collect radiation; a conductive core located between said proximal end and said distal collection end; a sheath surrounding a portion of said collection fiber; and a first anchoring balloon disposed on said sheath, said balloon having a wall, wherein said distal collection end directly contacts a portion of the wall of the balloon, said portion of the wall being adapted to be placed adjacent to a surface of interest.
 2. The probe device of claim 1, further comprising a multispectral and/or hyperspectral spectrometer optically coupled to said proximal end of said collection fiber and a detector array functionally coupled to said spectrometer to detect radiation from said proximal end of said collection fiber.
 3. The probe device of claim 2, wherein the detector array is sensitive to wavelengths of between 6,000 nm and 12,000 nm.
 4. The probe device of claim 2, further comprising an optical coupler for optically coupling said proximal end of said collection fiber to said spectrometer.
 5. The probe device of claim 4, wherein said optical coupler comprises a lens.
 6. The probe device of claim 1, further comprising an illumination fiber, said illumination fiber having a distal illumination end adjacent to said distal collection end of said collection fiber and a proximate end optically coupled to an illumination source.
 7. The probe device of claim 6, wherein said sheath surrounds a portion of said illumination fiber.
 8. The probe device of claim 1, wherein said collection fiber is flexible.
 9. The probe device of claim 1, further comprising means for orienting said distal collection end in a radial direction with respect to a longitudinal axis of said fiber core, wherein said means is proximate to said distal collection end.
 10. The probe device of claim 9, wherein said means for orienting said distal collection end in the radial direction comprises a bend in said fiber core, wherein said bend deploys radially when said distal collection end is advanced through a hole in said sheath.
 11. The probe device of claim 1, further comprising means for orienting the collection of infrared, near infrared, visible, and/or ultraviolet light by the collection fiber, said means selected from the group consisting of a bend, a mirror, a crystal or a prism.
 12. The probe device of claim 1, further comprising a detector element functionally coupled to said collection fiber to detect infrared, near infrared, visible, and/or ultraviolet radiation from said proximal end of said collection fiber, wherein said detector element is disposed at or near the collection end of the collection fiber.
 13. The probe device of claim 1, wherein the total diameter of said collection fiber, sheath and balloon have a diameter of greater than 1 cm when said first balloon is maximally inflated.
 14. The probe device of claim 1, wherein the total diameter of said collection fiber, sheath and balloon have a diameter of less than 4 mm when said first balloon is maximally inflated.
 15. The probe device of claim 1, wherein said distal collection end of said collection fiber is positioned inside the wall of said first anchoring balloon.
 16. The probe device of claim 1, wherein said distal collection end of said collection fiber is positioned adjacent to the outside of said wall of said balloon.
 17. The probe device of claim 1, further comprising a second anchoring balloon, and wherein said sheath has a distal portion extending past said distal collection end of said collection fiber, and wherein said first anchoring balloon is disposed on said sheath between said proximal end and said distal collection end of said collection fiber and said second anchoring balloon is disposed on said distal portion of said sheath.
 18. The probe device of claim 17, further comprising an opening in said sheath between said first and said second anchoring balloons.
 19. The probe device of claim 1, wherein said first anchoring balloon comprises a proximate end and a distal end, and a passage through said first anchoring balloon to allow fluid communication between said proximate end and said distal end of said first anchoring balloon.
 20. The probe device of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of collecting fibers disposed at least partly in said sheath for collecting infrared, near infrared, visible, and/or ultraviolet radiation.
 21. The probe of claim 1, further comprising an interactive coating on said first anchoring balloon.
 22. The probe of claim 21, wherein said coating is selected from the group consisting of proteins, antigens, stimulants, effector molecules and chemicals.
 23. The probe device of claim 1, wherein said first balloon, sheath, collection fiber or combinations thereof are disposable.
 24. The probe device of claim 1, wherein the light radiation is infrared, visible, ultraviolet, near infrared, or combinations thereof.
 25. The probe device of claim 24, wherein the conductive core is an infrared conductive core.
 26. A probe device comprising: an imaging collection fiber bundle comprising a plurality of collection fibers adapted to collect radiation, each of said plurality of collection fibers comprising a proximal end, a distal collection end opposite said proximal end, and a conductive core located between said proximal end and said distal collection end; and a first anchoring balloon disposed on said fiber bundle, said balloon having a wall, wherein said distal collection ends directly contact a portion of the wall of the balloon, said portion of the wall being adapted to be placed adjacent to a surface of interest.
 27. The probe device of claim 26, wherein said distal collection ends of said plurality of collection fibers are disposed inside said wall of said first anchoring balloon.
 28. The probe device of claim 27, wherein said distal collection ends of said plurality of collection fibers are positioned adjacent to the inside of said wall of said first balloon.
 29. The probe device of claim 26, further comprising a spectrometer and a detector array optically coupled to said proximal ends of said plurality of collection fibers to acquire an image.
 30. The probe device of claim 29, wherein said detector array is sensitive to wavelengths of between 6,000 nm and 12,000 nm.
 31. The probe device of claim 29, wherein said detector array comprises a focal plane.
 32. The probe device of claim 26, further comprising an illumination fiber having a distal illumination end adjacent to said distal collection ends of said plurality of collection fibers and a proximate end coupled to an illumination source.
 33. The probe device of claim 26, wherein said first anchoring balloon has a toroidal shape.
 34. The probe device of claim 26, further comprising a conduit passing through said wall of said first anchoring balloon and having a portion extending distally past said distal collection ends of said plurality of collection fibers, and a second anchoring balloon, said second anchoring balloon being attached to said portion of said conduit that extends distally past said distal collection ends of said plurality of collection fibers.
 35. The probe device of claim 34, wherein said conduit has an opening between said first and second balloons allowing fluid communication with a space between said first and second balloons.
 36. The probe device of claim 26, wherein the light collected by each of said collection fibers provides a single pixel for incorporation into a display.
 37. The probe device of claim 26, wherein said plurality of collection fibers in said fiber bundle are positioned adjacent to the outside of said wall of said balloon to form a bundle that surrounds said first balloon.
 38. The probe device of claim 26, wherein the light collected by the plurality of collection fibers is translated into an image optimized to facilitate interpretation.
 39. The probe device of claim 26, wherein said fiber bundle is flexible.
 40. The probe device of claim 26, further including means for orienting said distal collection ends in a radial direction with respect to a longitudinal axis of the cores of said fibers, wherein said means is proximate to said distal collection end of each fiber.
 41. The probe device of claim 40, wherein said means proximate for orienting said distal collection ends in a radial direction comprises bends in said fiber cores.
 42. The probe device of claim 41, wherein said bends in said fiber cores orient said plurality of collection fibers in at least two different directions.
 43. The probe device of claim 40, further comprising means for orienting the collection of infrared, near infrared, visible, and/or ultraviolet light by the plurality of collection fibers, said means selected from the group consisting of a bend, a mirror, or a crystal.
 44. The probe device of claim 26, wherein said plurality of collection fibers is adapted to collect infrared radiation, near infrared radiation, visible radiation, ultraviolet radiation, or combinations thereof.
 45. An endoscopic probe comprising: a collection fiber, said collection fiber comprising a proximal end, a distal collection end opposite said proximal end, and a conductive core located between said proximal end and said distal collection end; an illumination fiber having a distal illumination end adjacent to said distal collection end of said collection fiber and a proximate end coupled to an illumination source; and an anchoring balloon positioned on said probe such that said distal collection end and distal illumination end are disposed on an outer surface of said balloon, wherein said distal collection end is uncovered and exposed, and adapted to be placed in direct contact with a surface of interest.
 46. The probe of claim 45, wherein the probe further comprises a sheath surrounding a portion of said collection fiber and a portion of said illumination fiber.
 47. The probe of claim 45, wherein the balloon is infrared lucent.
 48. A method for obtaining information about a surface of interest, comprising the steps of: positioning a probe adjacent to said surface of interest, said probe comprising a collection fiber, said collection fiber comprising a proximal end, a distal collection end opposite said proximal end adapted to collect light, and a conductive core located between said proximal end and said distal collection end, and a first anchoring balloon disposed on said probe, wherein said distal collection end directly contacts a portion of a wall of the balloon, said portion of the wall being adjacent to said surface of interest; collecting light from said surface using said probe; transmitting the light collected from said surface to an analyzing means; for analyzing the light to determine one or more properties of said surface.
 49. The method of claim 48, wherein said probe has a longitudinal axis and the step of collecting light comprises collecting light in the vicinity of said collection end of said probe that radiates in a direction generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of said probe.
 50. The method of claim 49, wherein said collection fiber is moveably disposed in a sheath having a hole, and said collection fiber further comprises a bend in the core which deploys radially as the collection fiber is advanced through said hole in said sheath.
 51. The method of claim 48, further comprising a step of distending the surface of interest by inflating said first balloon to optimize analysis of the surface.
 52. The method of claim 48, wherein the step of analyzing comprises spectroscopic analysis.
 53. The method of claim 48, wherein the probe further comprises a sheath surrounding a portion of said collection fiber wherein said first anchoring balloon is disposed on said sheath between said proximal end and said distal collection end, and said sheath extends distally past said distal collection end and wherein said probe further comprises a second anchoring balloon disposed on said sheath distal to said distal collection end, and wherein said surface of interest is disposed in a lumen, and the method further comprises the steps of inflating said first anchoring balloon and said second anchoring balloon to create an enclosed volume defined by said first anchoring balloon, said second anchoring balloon and said lumen, and filling said volume with a fluid.
 54. The method of claim 53, wherein said anchoring balloons are inflated sequentially.
 55. The method of claim 53, wherein said fluid comprises an infrared lucent gas.
 56. The method of claim 53, wherein said fluid comprises an infrared lucent liquid.
 57. The method of claim 53, further comprising a step of inserting said distal collection end of said collection fiber into the enclosed volume after inflating said first and second anchoring balloons and filling the volume with said fluid.
 58. The method of claim 48, wherein said distal collection end is adapted to collect infrared radiation, near infrared radiation, visible radiation, ultraviolet radiation, or combinations thereof.
 59. A method for obtaining information about a surface of interest, comprising the steps of: positioning a probe adjacent to said surface of interest, said probe comprising a light collection fiber bundle comprising a plurality of collection fibers adapted to collect light, each of said plurality of collection fibers comprising a proximal end, a distal collection end opposite said proximal end, and a conductive core located between said proximal end and said distal collection end, wherein said distal collection end directly contacts a portion of the wall of the balloon, said portion of the wall being adjacent to a surface of interest; collecting infrared light from said surface using said probe; transmitting the infrared light collected from said surface to an analyzing means for analyzing the infrared light to determine one or more properties of said surface.
 60. The method of claim 59, wherein the probe further comprises an anchoring balloon having a wall disposed on said probe such that the distal collection ends of said plurality of collection fibers are disposed inside said wall of said anchoring balloon.
 61. The method of claim 59, wherein said probe has a longitudinal axis and the step of collecting light comprises collecting light in the vicinity of said distal collection ends of said probe that radiates in a direction generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of said probe.
 62. The method of claim 61, wherein the plurality of collection fibers are moveably disposed in a sheath and wherein said collection fibers each have a bend therein that deploys in a radial direction as the distal ends of the collection fibers are advanced outside of the sheath.
 63. The method of claim 59, wherein the step of analyzing comprises spectroscopic analysis.
 64. The method of claim 59, wherein said probe further comprises a sheath disposed around said fiber bundle, a first anchoring balloon disposed on said sheath between said distal collection ends and said proximal ends of said plurality of fibers, and a second anchoring balloon disposed on said sheath distal to said distal collection ends of said plurality of fibers and wherein said surface of interest is disposed in a lumen, and the method further comprises the steps of inflating said first anchoring balloon and said second anchoring balloon to create an enclosed volume defined by said first anchoring balloon, said second anchoring balloon and said lumen, and filling said volume with a fluid.
 65. The method of claim 64, wherein said fluid comprises an infrared lucent gas or liquid.
 66. The method of claim 64, further comprising a step of inserting said distal collection ends of said plurality of collection fibers into the enclosed volume after inflating said first and second anchoring balloons and filling the volume with said fluid.
 67. The method of claim 59, wherein said plurality of collection fibers is adapted to collect infrared radiation, near infrared radiation, visible radiation, ultraviolet radiation, or combinations thereof.
 68. A method for obtaining information about a tissue surface, comprising the steps of: collecting infrared radiation from said tissue surface using a probe, said probe comprising a collection fiber, said collection fiber comprising a proximal end, a distal collection end opposite said proximal end adapted to collect light, and a conductive core located between said proximal end and said distal collection end, said distal collection end placed in direct contact, or optically coupled via an infrared transparent coupling fluid or gas, with said tissue surface; transmitting the infrared radiation collected from said surface to a remote analyzer; and analyzing the infrared radiation to determine properties of said tissue surface.
 69. The method of claim 68, wherein the step of analyzing comprises spectroscopic analysis.
 70. The method of claim 68, wherein the step of collecting and transmitting is performed using multiple fibers in said probe.
 71. The method of claim 68, wherein said probe has a longitudinal axis and the step of: collecting infrared radiation comprises collecting infrared light in the vicinity of a collection end of said probe that radiates in a direction generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of said probe.
 72. The method of claim 68, wherein said probe comprises means for optically coupling said probe to said tissue surface to permit transmission and collection of infrared light.
 73. The method of claim 72, wherein said means for optically coupling comprises an anchoring balloon disposed around a collection end of said probe.
 74. The method of claim 72, wherein said means for optically coupling comprises a first anchoring balloon and a second anchoring balloon disposed on said probe such that a collection end of said probe is positioned between said first and said second anchoring balloons.
 75. The method of claim 68, wherein said tissue surface has an opposing surface disposed across the tissue and on the opposite side of said tissue surface, and wherein the method further comprises a step of providing a source of infrared radiation adjacent said opposing surface, and a step of collecting comprises collecting the radiation transmitted through the tissue to the probe.
 76. An endoscopic probe comprising: a toroidally-shaped anchoring balloon having a central hole there through; and a collection fiber adapted to collect radiation, said fiber having a distal collection end, said distal collection end being disposed inside said central hole of said ballon, and wherein said distal collection end is adapted to be placed in direct contact with a surface of interest.
 77. The probe of claim 76, further comprising an illumination fiber having a distal illumination end, said distal illumination end being disposed inside said central hole of said balloon.
 78. The endoscopic probe of claim 76, wherein the collection fiber is adapted to collect infrared radiation, near infrared radiation, visible radiation, ultraviolet radiation, or combinations thereof. 